Jessica Hernandez joined the foundation in 2021. She now serves the role of a project coordinator on the SPARK (Simons Foundation Powering Autism Research) team. She assists with day-to-day administrative duties and coordinates projects across the entire SPARK team. In the past, Hernandez has administratively supported the training and professional development of the New Jersey Child Welfare Workforce and workers that support individuals who are affected by crime. She also has previous experience in organizing free public-facing programming that helps make the arts and humanities accessible to the public.

Hernandez earned her master’s degree in social work from Rutgers University School of Social Work. Her concentration was on non-profit management. While obtaining her degree, she received a certificate in human services management from the national Network for Social Work Management.